From Zernez (1473 MASL) the first sharp climb of this racing cycle route takes you to Ova Spin (1,834 MASL). The superlatives also begin with this landscape: you’re in the region of the Swiss National Park– surrounded by dense forests and mighty peaks. After a short descent to Punt la Drossa (1,711 MASL), the route leads you to the right, through the tunnel to Livigno and thus into Italy. Caution: cyclists are not permitted in the tunnel. However, the shuttle bus comes regularly in the summer and is a welcome chance for you to get your breath back (www.silvestribus.it/de/). You reach Livigno (1,805 MASL) through tunnels and galleries along the reservoir. Racing bike pros carrying out their summer altitude training can often be encountered here. From Livigno, you go straight into the second climb of the day. There is usually a headwind at the Forcola di Livigno (2,314 MASL) and you can see the highest point from a long way off. The descent from the Forcola towards the Bernina Pass is short but fast. You get back onto Swiss soil at the customs post (2,054 MASL) and turn right into the Bernina Pass road. The panorama at the Bernina will bring tired legs back to top form. Most of the uphill metres of the tour have been gained at the pass height at 2,327 MASL from here it is (nearly) all downhill. But be careful: the descent from the Bernina Pass is gentle and it is tempting to really kick through. However, you should not burn your reserves here as there are still some kilometres through the beautiful Engadin from Pontresina back to Zernez. You still need some energy in the tank down the valley along the Inn.